Herman von Helmholtz

August 31, 1821- September 8, 1894

Early Life
Helmholtz is the son of Ferdinand Helmholtz who had studied classical philology and philosophy Helmholtzs work is influenced by the philosophy of Fichte and Kant. He tired to trace their theories in empirical matters like physiology

Academic Positions
Helmholtz first academic position was associate professor of physiology at the Prussian University of Konigsberg where he was appointed in 1849. In 1855 he accepted a full professorship of anatomy and physiology at the University of Bonn. Three years later he transferred to the University of Heidelberg, in Baden there he served as professor of physiology. In 1871 he took his final university position where he was the professor of physics at the University of Berlin

Physiology and Psychology

Known for the mathematics of the eye Theories of vision Ideas on the visual perception of space Color vision research The Perception of sound Empiricism

Physics
Known for Theories on the conservation of energy Work in electrodynamics chemical thermodynamics, and mechanical foundation of thermodynamics

Philosopher
Philosophy in science Ideas on the relation between the laws of perception and the laws of nature The science of aesthetics Ideas on civilizing power of science